The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) on Thursday said four of its personnel have been dismissed without honor from the service following an investigation into the sinking of M/V Trisha Kerstin 3.
In a statement, the PCG cited serious lapses in mandatory pre-departure inspection procedures for the removal of the following Coast Guard personnel from the concerned pre-departure inspection (PDI) team:
Petty Officer First Class Sabhal Turaini Petty Officer Third Class Khalid Asmawil Petty Officer Third Class Al-Yazar Muyong Apprentice Seawoman Mar-Iya Anawie
“Due to their failure to conduct an independent verification of the actual number of passengers and proper documentation of the vessel’s load line markings—critical steps to ensure safety at sea,” the PCG said.
Aside from them, more personnel face penalties over the sinking of the vessel.
Petty Officer Third Class Jestoni Barretto, who served as duty office watch, was demoted by one rank due to lack of due diligence in the performance of his duties.
Lieutenant Commander Tristan Jener Erediano and Lieutenant Jason Pagbonocan, who served as station commander and acting station commander in Zamboanga, were suspended for one year without pay.
The two were also ordered to undergo mandatory retraining on proper ship inspection standards, effective supervision of PDI teams, and operational management.
PCG spokesperson Captain Noemie Cayabyab said the agency does not condone any violation of maritime safety standards.
The Coast Guard will continue to enhance its inspection systems, supervision protocols, and personnel training to ensure public safety at sea, she added.
Meanwhile, underwater operations for the sunken M/V Trisha Kerstin 3 are set to conclude on Thursday, but affected families can expect continued support from authorities, according to the PCG.
As of February 22, total fatalities reached 65, with 293 survivors and 14 persons still missing, the PCG said. M/V Trisha Kerstin 3 departed from the Port of Zamboanga City for Jolo, Sulu on the evening of January 25 but submerged in Basilan waters on the morning of January 26.
